The negligent failure of the secretary or of any member of the board of directors shall be punished by a fine of not to exceed $50.00. The willful violation of this act [73- 18-25 to 73-18-43 N.M. Stat. Ann.] by omission or commission by the secretary or any director of said district or the willful making of a false statement by any person in connection with any election covered by this act, shall be punished by a fine not exceeding $300. Proceedings against any such official may be instituted in any justice of the peace court [magistrate court], sitting within the district or in the district court of the county within [wherein] such district has its office.